Best Mountain Bikes under $300 [Review and Buying Guide]

Mountain Bike under $300
Table of Contents

Do you love an adventurous cycle in mud and through the woods? If so, you’ll need a mountain bike that’s designed to keep up with these environments. Fortunately, we’ve created a list of the top models of the best mountain bike under $300 to buy right now and a buying guide to help you narrow down your search.

For those in a rush, we recommend the Schwinn High Timber Youth and Adult Mountain Bike. This is a great mountain bike as it comes with 21 speeds that make the bike diverse for tough terrain and riding up and downhills. Furthermore, this mountain bike features a high-quality SR Suntour suspension system that minimizes bumps and vibrations for a smoother, more enjoyable ride.

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS rating  price
Best OverallSchwinn High Timber Youth and Adult Mountain Bike Schwinn High Timber Youth and Adult Mountain Bike
  • Type: Mountain Bike
  • Gears: 21
  • Frame Materials: Steel
10
Best Runner UpHuffy Hardtail Mountain Trail Huffy Hardtail Mountain Trail
  • Type: Trail Bike
  • Gears: 21
  • Frame Materials: Aluminum
10
Best Budget PickMongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike for Men and Women Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike for Men and Women
  • Type: Mountain Bike
  • Gears: 21
  • Frame Materials: Aluminum
9
Kent Pomona Women's Dual Suspension Comfort Bike Kent Pomona Women’s Dual Suspension Comfort Bike
  • Type: Cruiser Bike
  • Gears: 7
  • Frame Materials: Aluminum
8.5
Northwoods Aluminum Full Suspension Mountain Bike Northwoods Aluminum Full Suspension Mountain Bike
  • Type: Mountain Bike
  • Gears: 21
  • Frame Materials: Aluminum
8.5
Hiland Mountain Bike Hiland Mountain Bike
  • Type: Mountain Bike
  • Gears: 21
  • Frame Materials: Steel
9
Outroad Mountain Bike Outroad Mountain Bike
  • Type: Mountain Bike
  • Gears: 21
  • Frame Materials: Steel
9
Sirdar S-700 Mountain Bike Sirdar S-700 Mountain Bike
  • Type: Mountain Bike
  • Gears: 24
  • Frame Materials: Aluminum
9
Mongoose Argus and Argus ST Kids/Youth/Adult Fat Tire Mountain Bike Mongoose Argus and Argus ST Kids/Youth/Adult Fat Tire Mountain Bike
  • Type: Mountain Bike
  • Gears: 7
  • Frame Materials: Steel
9
Mongoose Exlipse Full Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike for Kids Mongoose Exlipse Full Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike for Kids
  • Type: Mountain Bike
  • Gears: 21
  • Frame Materials: Steel
9

Review of The Best Mountain Bike under $300

When looking for the best mountain bikes under $300, you need to take several factors into consideration: gears, frame materials, suspension systems, and comfort. Combined, all of these features have a huge effect on the safety, performance, and enjoyment of riding your bike. We’ve created a list of the best mountain bike under 300 dollars you can buy right now that are versatile—great for kids, beginners, and experienced male and female riders. Don’t forget to check out the buying guide for the best mountain bike under 300 dollars further down to narrow down our selections of the ideal bike for you.

Schwinn High Timber Youth and Adult Mountain Bike—Best Overall

Schwinn High Timber Youth and Adult Mountain Bike

We declare this Schwinn model of the best mountain bikes under $300 you can buy right now. First, this is a great bike as it comes with a 21-speed Shimano rear derailleur, alloy crank, and SRAM grip shifters that provide reliable and smooth gear changes when you’re on your travels. This is particularly great for cruising up and down inclines or cycling over challenging terrain.

The is a great mountain bike as its brakes provide fast and precise stopping. In fact, the brakes offer a smooth ride even over rough terrain. Therefore, you’ll experience a more enjoyable ride. Furthermore, it comes with a high-quality SR Suntour suspension system that smooths bumps while increasing your control. The sturdy, high-performing, and dependable frame also make the bike comfortable to ride, and thus, it is considered among the best mountain bikes. 

In addition, the Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike is affordable, mainly thanks to the steel frame reducing the overall manufacturing cost. Not only is this material durable, but it provides notable comfort for long rides while remaining easy to repair and virtually minimal maintenance.

Pros

  • SR Suntour suspension system smooths bumps
  • 21-speed Shimano gears for tough terrain
  • Easy-to-repair steel frame

Cons

  • Some might prefer more cushioning on the saddle

Huffy Hardtail Mountain Trail—Best Runner Up

Huffy Hardtail Mountain Trail

This Huffy bike is the best budget bike on our list for trail riding. With 21 speeds available, you can comfortably and conveniently switch between various environmental conditions and surfaces. In fact, this Huffy Hardtail Mountain Trail Bike is perfect for riding up and down hills and then in mud and snow.

Furthermore, this model comes with 27.5-inch alloy wheels that make the mountain bike easier to control than smaller wheels. In fact, the wheels handle twist, and rough terrain well. Due to the smaller size, you can accelerate and steer quickly, helping to make this budget bike easier to ride and more response—even when tackling difficult terrain. 

This Huffy bike comes with an aluminum rims and alloy frame, which helps to minimize shocks and absorb vibrations as you cycle over bumps, rocks, and more. Furthermore, it’s equipped with a front suspension system that improves your comfort during long and/or challenging routes. But with a half-suspension system, you’ll still get to experience an adventurous ride; a feature that’s often important to avid mountain bikers.

Pros

  • 27.5-inch wheels are lightweight
  • The mountain bike is easy to steer around tight corners
  • This mountain bike features aluminum rims and shock absorbing mechanism

Cons

  • Some might prefer wider wheels

Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike for Men and Women—Best Budget Pick

Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike for Men and Women

This Mongoose mountain bike is a must-have if you’re on a budget and looking for your next adventure. It features a durable aluminum frame and a powerful suspension fork and rear shock to smooth out bumps and reduce tough terrain vibrations.

Another feature male and female bikers will love the light and strong alloy rims. These add durability and support to the bike, so you don’t have to worry about toppling over as you steer around tight bends. Furthermore, the knobby 2.125-inch tires are wide and can roll over tree trunks, rocks, and uneven surfaces. 

In addition, this Mongoose mountain bike is quite similar to the mongoose mech mountain bike has a 21-speed Shimano rear derailleur with SRAM twist shifters that guarantee quick shifting. The bike also features a durable and robust aluminum frame that minimizes shocks and creates a smooth ride. Plus, the powerful suspension fork helps to smooth out bumps, allowing this mountain bike to not just get you through your next adventure, but make it enjoyable.

Finally, when you’re ready to come to a stop, this mountain bike won’t let you down. It’s equipped with classic front and rear V-brakes that provide ample control, even at high speeds, and brings you to a stop almost instantly.

Pros

  • 21 speeds for versatility
  • Powerful suspension fork for a smooth ride
  • Wide tires that make the bike versatile and practical

Cons

  • Slightly heavier than other mountain bikes or other models, which can impact the speed

Kent Pomona Women’s Dual Suspension Comfort Bike—Best for Comfort

Kent Pomona Women's Dual Suspension Comfort Bike

If you’re looking for a mountain bike to use regularly instead of public transport, the Kent Pomana Comfort Women’s Mountain Bikes makes an excellent option. This model features a seven-speed drive-train, along with a reliable Shimano rear derailleur and user-friendly Micro Sift Twist Shifter.

Furthermore, this women’s mountain bike comes equipped with powerful front and rear linear pull brakes that can handle stopping, even when you don’t have much time to apply the brakes. Also, you can ride this women’s mountain bike for long periods, thanks to the generously padded seat that has numerous benefits to it. Plus, the lightweight 36-spoke alloy rims provide further cushioning to the mountain bikes.

You can use this mountain bike to commute to work or on off road conditions: its full-suspension frame helps smooth out the ride on paved and unpaved road surfaces. Meanwhile, the lightweight, yet durable, aluminum frame allows you to cycle at fast speeds and also reduces the impact you feel when riding over bumps and uneven surfaces.

Pros

  • Easy-to-use Micro Sift Twist Shifter
  • Suitable for paved and unpaved roads
  • Lightweight aluminum frame

Cons

  • Not ideal for experience mountain bikers

Northwoods Aluminum Full Suspension Mountain Bike—Best for Tires

Northwoods Aluminum Full Suspension Mountain Bike

This Northwood model is a great contender if you’re searching for the best mountain bikes under $300. In particular, it uses a full suspension system on the front and rear that delivers a 50 mm travel steel crown fork. This full suspension system provides plenty of protection as you ride over bumps and regularly engage with off-road trails. Furthermore, this type of fork enhances your control on the mountain bikes, no matter what terrain you’re exposed to. Therefore, the full suspension frame of this mountain bike makes it sturdy and durable.

In addition, this Northwood full suspension mountain bike has 21-speed levels that use Speed Twist shifters to provide ease and reliability when shifting. In fact, a smooth transition is guaranteed with this shifter, helping to improve your overall enjoyment while riding. 

The full suspension mountain bike is equipped with dual linear pull brakes, located on the bike’s front and rear. This aggressive brake system allows you to come to an immediate stop, even when riding under rainfall or in a particularly muddy area.

Finally, this full suspension mountain bike features 24-inch wheels with knobby and wide tires, providing plenty of stability and traction compared to traditional tires. In fact, the knobby tires will dig into the ground and provide plenty of grip, without impacting the bike’s handling. And as the wheel rims are made out of alloy, this material decreases any wear and tear caused by the linear pull brake. Furthermore, the alloy rims of this full suspension mountain bike can handle crashes and bumps much better than steel rims.

Pros

  • Wide and knobby tires have plenty of grips
  • The full suspension system for comfort
  • Smooth and reliable gear transitions

Cons

  • Some reported that the front suspension isn’t stiff enough for them

Hiland Mountain Bike—Best for a Smooth Ride

Hiland Mountain Bike

If you’re looking for the best mountain bikes under $300 that will provide a smooth ride on a range of surfaces, this Hiland unit makes an excellent contender. In particular, its suspension system is designed to absorb hard bumps and vibrations, allowing you to get around even the toughest obstacles. 

As well as this feature, the mountain bike features Shimano RevoShift twist grip shifters with 21 speeds, so you’ll always experience smooth and reliable transitions, allowing you to make quick gear changes when you need them. In fact, this feature in these mountain bikes will enable you to pedal uphill easily. 

By featuring a steel frame, this mountain bike is budget-friendly and makes it strong and durable, so you don’t have to be gentle with it when riding. Plus, this frame material is ideal if you’re looking for an adventurous ride and prefer to slightly feel the impact of riding on off-road trails. 

Pros

  • 21 speeds provide plenty of versatility
  • Budget-friendly mountain bike
  • The suspension system absorbs shocks and vibrations

Cons

  • Heavier than other mountain bikes

Outroad Mountain Bike—Best for Shorter Riders

Outroad Mountain Bike

Outroad designed this mountain bike with a steel frame and 21 speeds, so you can ride it in a variety of conditions without feeling like you’re being held back. In fact, with 21 speeds readily available, these Outroad mountain bikes are versatile and allows you to ride up and down hills with ease.

It comes with multipurpose tires and front suspension forks that help you to tackle bumps and impacts. In fact, the disc brakes provide high-performing stopping power, even in wet and muddy conditions or when you’re cycling at high speeds.

Riding has never been easier with the Outroad mountain bike. It’s equipped with a 17-inch frame, making it a suitable size for children. Furthermore, the three-spoke fashion rims are light and easy to drive, so even if you’re a beginner, you’ll be able to ride this bike confidently. Plus, these features allow you to cycle up mountains quickly—even the most challenging ones.

Pros

  • 21 speeds provide plenty of versatility
  • Brakes have excellent stopping power
  • The bike is suitable for riding in wet and rainy conditions

Cons

  • Doesn’t feature a full suspension system

Sirdar S-700 Mountain Bike—Best for Speed

Sirdar S-700 Mountain Bike

This Sirdar mountain bike features 27 speeds, which allows you to travel fast and in various conditions, including up and downhills. Plus, the finger-type shifter three rears front derailleur and 9 rear derailleur make these mountain bikes easier to pedal at high speeds and when you’re accelerating. Therefore, the bike doesn’t require as much effort when handling uphill and downhill slopes.

It comes equipped with an aluminum body and rust-proof carbon steel components that provide improved rolling resistance. Plus, at 37.47 pounds, the bike is light enough for the average adult to carry with one hand on their shoulder, making it excellent for portability purposes and extremely practical.

You’ll also receive 26-inch wheels that can handle hilly terrains, helping you to feel free on the bike with minimal restrictions. The gear changes are also smooth and reliable, making it perfect for riding on mountains, cities, snow, beaches, and more. The front and rear double disc brakes also increase safety and controllability to make these mountain bikes more enjoyable and reliable to ride.

Pros

  • 21 speeds provide plenty of versatility
  • 26-inch tires can handle hilly terrains
  • Lightweight, providing excellent portability

Cons

  • Not ideal for taller riders

Mongoose Argus and Argus ST Kids/Youth/Adult Fat Tire Mountain Bike—Best for Riding in Mud

Mongoose Argus and Argus ST Kids/Youth/Adult Fat Tire Mountain Bike

This Mongoose mountain bike features thick tires that are responsive and allow you to ride in all-terrain adventures. In particular, you can ride this mountain bike in snow, rain, and mud, and it won’t have any difficulties with these conditions. These tires measure 20 x 4 inches, so they’re thicker than any that we’re listed in this article.

Impressively, the bike comes with mechanical disc brakes that supply quick, effective braking system, even when you’re in a slippery condition. Therefore, you’ll get peace of mind that the bike will bring you to an immediate stop during times when you need it.

Although this mountain bike only comes with seven speeds, it offers a Shimano rear derailleur that means these mountain bikes can conveniently adapt to a range of terrain.

Pros

  • Fat tires make it easier to control in challenging conditions
  • Responsive mechanical disc brakes
  • Shimano rear derailleur adapts to any terrain

Cons

  • Minimal speeds

Mongoose Exlipse Full Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike for Kids—Best for Kids

Mongoose Exlipse Full Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike for Kids

Finally, we’re excited to present a kid’s model of a practical and reliable mountain bike. It comes with a full suspension system that allows little ones to suit around the neighborhood. In fact, children can also enjoy adventurous routes and off-road trails, thanks to the suspension system. Also, the knobby tire treads allow your little ones to keep safe and prevents them from slipping on lumps and bumps along their route.

The Exlipse comes with front and rear linear-pull brakes that work hard to provide quick and reliable stopping power in all conditions. Furthermore, the 21-speed Shimano gears with derailleur mean that your little one can tackle hills easily and with confidence. Plus, the twist-shift changing process is easy to learn and provides a smooth and precise operation.

Pros

  • This mountain bike has knobby tires to prevent kids from slipping
  • 21-speed gears allow kids to tackle uphill climbs
  • This mountain bike comes with twist-shift gear changing is smooth and easy

Cons

  • This mountain bike is only available in pink

Buying Guide

Choosing only one or two of the above mountain bikes under $300 can be a challenge. However, we’ve provided an easy-to-follow buying guide for the best mountain bikes under 300 dollars below, listing the most common and important features to bear in mind. With this information, you can narrow down your choice to select the mountain bike that’s closest to having these features. 

Wheel Size

There are two-wheel sizes to consider: height and width. For beginners, these dimensions will be listed with the product as 26″ x 2.2″. The wider the tire, the easier it will be to cycle through mud, rain, and snow. This is ideal for biking on off-road trials and not feeling restricted in these circumstances.

Also, you should consider the tire’s height. A common size is 27.5 inches. Due to the bike’s smaller size, it’ll steer and accelerate easier than other tires, making the bike more responsive and easier to control and move on off-road trails. Furthermore, the bike is lighter due to this smaller size, helping you to comfortably cycle up hills and accelerate easily.

Alternatively, 29-inch wheels are easier to roll over tree trunks, rocks, and bumps along your route. The larger diameter makes the bike easier to ride over technical terrain and you can cruise over seemingly-impossible environments with less effort. Also, the higher air volume provides additional suspension, contributing to a smoother and more enjoyable ride.

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Suspension

There are two types of suspension to consider for a mountain bike: hardtail and full suspension. If you’re looking for a simple, lightweight option, a front suspension system makes a great contender. This suspension type is easier to control and cheaper to maintain as it doesn’t come with any moving parts, such as bushing, pivots, and more.

Furthermore, without having a rear suspension system, too, a hardtail bike reduces the chances of you making errors on technical terrain and causes you to think more about your body position, rather than relying on the bike to put in all the work.

On the other hand, a bike will perform at its best with a full suspension system. By allowing the cycle to take some of the pressure off of you while you ride, you can focus more on the ride rather than stress thinking about the terrain and your body posture. In fact, full-suspension can give you more handling power in technical terrain than a hardtail bike ever could. Furthermore, you’ll encounter more confidence as you ride on off-road trails and challenging routes. For that reason, this is a great mountain bike under 300 bucks!

Frame Material

There are many materials to consider with your bike’s frame, with the two most popular options being aluminum and steel. The latter is ideal if you’re a cyclist on a budget or don’t intend to use your mountain bike that much. Steel is significantly stronger than other frame materials and can absorb more blows when suffering damage.

However, steel is heavier than aluminum, making cycling more challenging since you have to fight through this excess weight. Steel is also not resistant to corrosion, so it can impact the bike’s well-being if not properly cared for.

Alternatively, we recommend a bike with an aluminum frame. This material absorbs more shocks and vibrations as you ride, helping to improve the overall comfort and enjoyment of cycling. Another great advantage of an aluminum frame is its lightweight, which allows you to accelerate easier and maintain a high speed when cycling. Furthermore, an aluminum frame isn’t prone to rust or corrosion, which means it’s a more suitable material to use when it’s raining.

More: Enjoy the Bumpy Trails with the Top 5 Best Hardtail Mountain Bike

The Gears

You might be wondering how many gears you need on your hardtail mountain bike and the number is completely dependent on the environment you’ll be riding or your preferences when cycling. For example, if you want to make mountain biking more challenging.

Most importantly, the number of gears is dependent on the environment. For example, if you plan on cycling up hills, you won’t need a wide range of gears, but you will as you head back down the hill. Otherwise, you’ll end up heading down a steep hill at full speed with a less chance of coming to a stop. For these scenarios, we recommend a hardtail mountain bike with up to 17-21 speeds.

On the other hand, if you’ll only ride your mountain bike on smooth surfaces (although, a mountain bike is designed for difficult terrain), fewer gears will suffice—such as up to four gears.

Brake Type

Another feature to carefully consider is the hardtail mountain bike’s disc brake type: mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes. Mechanical disc brakes are designed simply and easy to use. They’re also inexpensive, which is great if you’re on a budget. In fact, they’re ideal if you’re a beginner or entry-level cyclist.

However, mechanical disc brakes can be difficult to maintain and easily damaged, lending to time and money spent on repairs. They also require a lot of pressure to bring the bike to a stop and aren’t always as responsive or sensitive as the alternative.

On the other hand, hydraulic disc brakes are smoother and more responsive, allowing a more impressive stopping power. Therefore, you can confidently use this braking system in rain, snow, and muddy conditions with ease. Plus, you don’t have to apply as much force. However, for these incredible features, these mountain bikes will be more expensive and difficult to adjust and maintain, making them unsuitable if you’re on a tight budget.

Weight

Finally, no-one wants a heavy, bulky mountain bike that makes it difficult to ride and transport. Generally speaking, the heavier the bike, the more challenging it will be to cycle and reach top speeds. The average weight of a mountain bike is between 28 and 32 pounds, although, your chosen weight depends on your personal preferences and riding style.

Lighter bikes, be it mountain bikes or other models are easier to maneuver and get started and turn around corners, while also being easier to bring to a stop. Furthermore, lighter also makes it easier to climb tough hills as you don’t have as much weight to lift up the hill.

Several factors can affect a mountain bike’s weight, such as the suspension system. A hardtail suspension is lighter since there are fewer materials and components on the bike. Furthermore, the fame material also influences the bike’s weight. For example, steel is much heavier than carbon fiber.  

More: TREK Stache 9.7 Review: Is It The Best Hardtail Mountain Bike

FAQ

Who is a Mountain Bike Designed For?

Mountain bikes are designed for riding on mountain trails, fire roads, and unpaved surfaces. Although they can be ridden on smooth pavements, the majority of their time is spent on off-road conditions and some of the toughest terrains you’ll experience.

To comfortably and safely ride in such conditions, a mountain bike must come with a range of features, including a suspension system (this can be full or hardtail). A full-suspension mountain bike is ideal for riding in off-road conditions. This suspension type can provide an array of comfort for days and is well-suited if you suffer from knee or back pain. In fact, this added bounce means that you’ll receive less traction during challenging climbs, where you’d usually become out of breath or slower. 

Due to these conditions, the disc brakes on mountain bikes are much more reliable than other bike types. In fact, these disc brakes make the bike better at coping with dirt and grim, where it’d ordinarily get clogged up.

There are many important features to consider with a mountain bike (as mentioned in the section earlier). With these considerations, a mountain bike isn’t designed for beginners, but those who have experience in cycling and are confident and excited about the concept of riding in some of the most off-road conditions. 

Where To Buy a Mountain Bike?

Thankfully, there are many places you can purchase a mountain bike that’s high-quality and comes with many features. One of the most significant things to consider is the brand. You should purchase mountain bikes from a reputable supplier with years of experience to give you peace of mind that it’ll be long-lasting and high-performing. Such brands include: Mongoose, Huffy, Northwoods, and more. 

Many online retailers, such as Amazon, allow you to make a purchase of the best mountain bike under 300 dollars without leaving your home. But for your own peace of mind and to avoid any delays or errors, we recommend examining the size guide in the bike’s listing and ensure that the measurements are appropriate for your height.

More: Diamondback Bicycles Lux 3 review: Is It a Good Hardtail Mountain Bike To have

What Size Do You Need?

Choosing the right size frame for you is important to ensure that you’re safe during your time on the mountain bikes. In order to make your purchase, you may need to take some measurements of yourself (or the person you’re buying the bike for). 

Here’s an outline of some of the most popular sizes and the frame size of the best mountain bikes under 300 dollars you’ll need:

  • Height: 5′.0″. Frame Size: 15”
  • Height: 5′.3. Frame Size: 16”
  • Height: 5′.7″. Frame Size: 17”
  • Height: 5′.9. Frame Size: 18”
  • Height: 5′.11″. Frame Size: 19”
  • Height: 6′.2″. Frame Size: 20”
  • Height:  6′.5″. Frame Size: 21”

In many cases, your height won’t be exactly any of these figures. Therefore, you’re stuck with wondering which size is best for you. Consider the reach—a term for how long the bike feels when you’re in the riding position. This is influenced by the length of your upper body as opposed to your height.

If your trunk length is longer than average (compared to your height), then we recommend choosing the largest option of the two sizes that you’re stuck between. Alternatively, if your reach is smaller than the average size, opt for the smaller frame. This factor is important as it prevents you from stretching your legs to reach the floor when you’re in the riding position.

More: Trek Marlin 6 Review: Is it A good bike To Have

The Runner’s Up

We hope you enjoyed these mountain bikes under $300 reviews. But if you’re still unsure of the best mountain bike(s) for you, the Huffy Hardtail Mountain Trail makes an excellent runner-up. It features 21 speeds for versatility and practicality in adventurous rides and can even handle exposure to mud, rain, and snow. The feature of providing great traction on wet and muddy surfaces of these mountain bikes makes it the ideal bike for hilly terrain.

This mountain bike handles well, thanks to the 27.5-inch wheels that make it easier to control and steer around tight corners. Meanwhile, the aluminum frame minimizes shocks and keeps the bike lightweight, so you can travel far and fast without anything holding you back.

Alternatively, the Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike is ideal for those on a budget (you can also give a look to the mongoose mech mountain bike model). It features wide, knobby tires to keep you secure to the ground, even when it’s muddy or you’re cycling over tree trunks. Plus, the aluminum frame reduces the amount of shocks you feel and adds plenty of durability, while reducing maintenance. 

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